Benzoin (Siam) (Styrax tonkinensis) is a resinous essential oil with a sweet, warm, vanilla-like aroma and a base note. Solvent extraction from resin, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Benzoin, Vanilla CO2, Frankincense (Carterii). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 2%.
Siam benzoin (S. tonkinensis) with cleaner sweeter vanilla note than Sumatra type. French perfumery standard.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Resinous |
| Chemical family | Ester |
| Material type | Resinoid |
| Extraction | Solvent extraction |
| Plant part | resin |
| Origin | Laos, Vietnam, Thailand |
| Blending factor | 3 |
| Volatility index | 4 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 24.0 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 2% |
| Max facial dilution | 1% |
| Pregnancy | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 months) |
| Cats | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Safety flags
Evidence: Traditional.
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Not sure how much to use? Try the free dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Compare Benzoin (Siam) with
Frequently asked questions
What does Benzoin (Siam) essential oil smell like?
Benzoin (Siam) has a sweet, warm, vanilla-like, balsamic, fresh aroma, classed as a resinous oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Benzoin (Siam)?
For topical use, keep Benzoin (Siam) at or below 2%, and 1% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Benzoin (Siam) safe to use during pregnancy?
Benzoin (Siam) is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Is Benzoin (Siam) safe to use around children?
Benzoin (Siam) is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 months). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Benzoin (Siam) safe around pets?
For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Benzoin (Siam) blend well with?
Benzoin (Siam) pairs well with Benzoin, Vanilla CO2, Frankincense (Carterii), Myrrh, Sandalwood (Indian / Mysore).